Sable Thorpe

4.5 out of 5 Stars

Wished by Sarah Ready is a contemporary magical realist romance that takes readers on an adventure of love and finding out what they want, and what it means to truly figure that out.

Set in both beautiful Switzerland and France, this is the fourth book in the Ghosted series. It tells the story of Anna, a hardworking, true-romantic house cleaner who has secretly loved her wealthy boss, Max Barone, for a couple of years. After making a wish on his family heirloom necklace Anna finds herself in a different reality where she's been married to Max for seven years, and she must navigate this new life while questioning what true love and happiness mean in reality.

Ready successfully combines elements of magic and heartfelt romance yet again. The story makes you reflect on what you want from love, highlighting the saying “Be careful what you wish for”. Anna is a lovable character, and it's heartwarming to see Max change from someone who seems cold to a sweet (if a little dirty) romantic interest.

The book moves quickly, with short chapters and some steamy moments that add excitement to the magical storyline. The audiobook, narrated by Amanda Ronconi and Will Watt (who sadly only got 2 chapters), brings the characters to life and is great for those who enjoy listening.

Having read Fated, I was excited for some justice for poor Max. I was a little off-put by how Max is introduced (not like I remember from Fated), and how he acts when upset. I think it is meant to be powerful and sexy, but if domestic violence is a trigger for you, just be aware that Max has a habit of grabbing and holding Anna by the wrist multiple times throughout. However, he is not a violent man.

This book feels like a slight shift into the billionaire romance genre. It is a little wild that their class disparity is never properly addressed, even as a challenge for them to overcome. The power dynamic is outrageously in Max's favour, with a generational gemstone wealth behind him, while Anna is someone who drifted into house cleaning to take care of her poor family and ended up making it her living. However, if you like billionaire romances, I don't know that it would bother you. I haven't read any, so I am not the best judge.

Overall, “Wished” is a fun escape for anyone who loves contemporary romance with a touch of magical realism. It's perfect for those who believe in wishes and the power of love and living authentically, or enjoy billionaire romances. Whether you're just starting the series or have been a fan for a while, Sarah Ready has done it again!

Thank you to Swift & Lewis Publishing, LLC & Net Galley for providing an audiobook copy for my unbiased review.

5/5 Stars!

“The Cursed Writer” by Holly Hepburn is a British historical mystery with a hint of cosiness that will surely appeal to fans of Sherlock Holmes and anyone who loves a thoughtfully crafted whodunit. Set in the 1930s in England, the second novel in the series follows Harriet White, a clever young woman relegated to working in the basement of a Baker Street building society, where she answers letters addressed to the famous detective, Sherlock Holmes. Her curiosity is sparked when she receives an urgent telegram concerning the troubles of the celebrated author Philip St John, leading her to the mysterious Thurmwell Manor in Cambridgeshire.

Hepburn's writing is so enjoyable. She refines the essence of classic detective fiction with a gently modern touch, crafting a story that feels both nostalgic and modern. The atmospheric backdrop of the foggy fens and the gothic manor house adds a wonderfully eerie element and reminds me of a Sherlock Holmes tale (a la Hound of the Baskervilles). The central mystery is cleverly plotted, filled with twists and surprises that will keep you guessing. Hepburn adeptly weaves together various plot threads, including nods to earlier cases and hints at exciting future escapades. She also includes a compelling personal journey for the main character, full of its own twists.

The heart of the book is Harry herself. She is clever, independent, and ahead of her time - but not out of place. Her determination to solve the case, despite the societal norms of her time (without unrealistically disrespecting them), shows a clever mind indeed. The supporting characters are also well-developed, especially Oliver who is a great partner in justice (Do I ship her and Oliver? Absolutely I do, even though there is no actual romance indicated).

“The Cursed Writer” is a wonderful choice for fans of cosy and historical mysteries, and Sherlock Holmes or Agatha Christie fans. It is a delightful mix of period details, engaging characters, and a classic mystery that will attract readers who appreciate a thoughtful challenge with a hint of the supernatural. Whether you're jumping into the series for the first time or coming back for another adventure, this book is for you.

Thank you to Boldwood Books & Net Galley for a eARC in exchange for my honest review.

5/5 Stars!

“Unofficial Taylor Swift Crochet” is a nicely & clearly photographed fusion of crafting and style that will enchant both Swifties and crocheters alike. This vibrant collection, curated by Lee Sartori, offers over 20 diverse projects spanning clothing, home décor, and accessories, all inspired by Taylor Swift's iconic style and music.

From the “All Too Well” scarf (my personal fav) to THE “Cardigan” sweater, each project captures Swift's carefully curated style while providing a creative outlet for crafters of all skill levels. I also adore the Reputation TS amigurumi with her amazing suit!

The book's clear instructions, difficulty ratings, and “Taylor Made” customization tips make it accessible to beginners and interesting for even experienced crocheters. I found the instructions in the very back of the book to be very high quality, a lot better than you get in some of the more common pop culture-themed crochet books.

If you have a Swifite in your life you think should get into crochet, get them this book. It is also a perfect gift for any already craft-loving Swiftie looking to express their creativity through crochet.

Thank you to Quarto Publishing Group – Quarry Books & NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for my honest review.

4/5 Stars!

“The Dream Haunters” by Megan Mary is an autumnal magical mystery about Hannah Skye's journey to find her missing Aunt Jewelia. After getting a strange letter, Hannah heads to Maple Hollow. It turns out to be a magical island that is in autumn forever. There, she discovers her family's magic and learns to jump between dreams and our world to rescue her aunt by Halloween night.

Mary's prose makes you feel like you're right there, crunching through leaves and breathing in the crisp autumn air. The mix of fantasy, mystery, and coming-of-age threads weave together beautifully. Hannah's journey to discover her powers is compelling, and the side characters are also fun, especially the talking cat dream guide. The whole ‘dream haunter' concept is intriguing and keeps you invested. The book's pacing can be a bit off, with some parts feeling rushed. But, the story's charm and prose more than makes up for it.

If you're into cosy fantasy and spooky mysteries, this book is perfect for curling up with on an autumn day. It's great for young adults and anyone who wants a taste of fantasy without committing to a long series, or an overwhelming amount of mythology.

I listened to the audiobook version. I found the narrator to be very talented, and great with voices and expression. I feel she was a little bit of an odd choice. Her lovely soft voice can come across as older than the young main character, which drew me out of the story at times.

Thank you to Inner Realms Publishing and Net Galley for providing this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.

5/5 Stars

“The Viscount and the Thief” by Emma Orchard is a compelling romance set in the Regency era that we all know and love so well. It was so good, I read it in a single Sunday. Taking place in the spring of 1811, the story follows Sophie Delavallois, a smart, strong young woman with a secret plan, as she becomes the new companion for the Dowager Marchioness at Wyverne Hall. There, she meets Lord Drake, the mysterious Viscount, who feels a strong connection to her and is sure he knows her from somewhere. As their attraction deepens, Sophie is not quite torn between her desire for revenge and her growing feelings for Drake, but it makes her plan more difficult to pull off.

Orchard's writing features clever dialogue and well-developed characters, making the chemistry between Sophie and Drake exciting and full of tension. The romance unfolds at a good pace, keeping readers eager for more. The story is filled with intrigue and unexpected twists, as secrets come to light and characters' true intentions are revealed. Orchard also pays attention to the details of the Regency period, bringing it to life in an enjoyable way.

This book will resonate with fans of “Bridgerton,” Julia Quinn, and anyone who enjoys passionate historical romances mixed with a bit of mystery. Readers who like complex characters, family secrets, and redemption stories will find plenty to enjoy in “The Viscount and the Thief.”

It's important to mention that even though the cheerful cover might seem quite innocent, I consider the book a 4 out of 5 for spice, as it includes adult themes that aren't suitable for younger teens. This engaging story is best for adult readers looking for a sensual and thrilling Regency adventure.

Thank you to both Boldwood Books & Net Galley for an eARC in exchange for my honest review.

5/5 Stars

“A Lady's Lesson in Scandal” by Darcy McGuire is a fun historical romance that combines espionage, love, and humour. Set in Victorian England, the story follows Millicent Whittenburg, a secret agent (sort of still in training) for Queen Victoria, who tries to escape a marriage she doesn't want by publicly ruining her reputation and making herself unmarryable. Her unknown victim and collateral damage is Major General Beaufort Drake, a man known for avoiding marriage and hating women. However, Millicent's plan goes awry when the battle-scarred veteran (and secret private investigator for the Prime Minister), proposes marriage for his own reasons.

McGuire's storytelling is compelling as she blends romance and mystery. The chemistry between Millie and Drake is palpable from their first meeting, and their relationship grows as they deal with their imminent engagement. Both characters are interesting and well-developed. Millie is a strong, possibly plus-size woman (she is called fat by a character, but the book cover doesn't show this) who challenges societal norms of feminine weakness and stupidity. At the same time, Drake's tough appearance hides a more sensitive side and trauma that is both mental and physical.

What makes this novel stand out is the powerful mix of romance and mystery tipped in favour of romance in the first half of the book, and mystery in the second. As Millie and Drake secretly work on supposedly separate missions to uncover a sinister plan, their paths cross. The intertwined storylines keep the pace engaging. Their playful banter is delightful and the spicy scenes are realistic and enjoyable.

A romance needs some spice, and McGuire delivers a good amount of it. The intimate scenes strike a lovely balance between sensual and sweet. The tension between Mille and Drake builds wonderfully, making their moments together even more rewarding.

“A Lady's Lesson in Scandal” is a must-read for anyone who loves historical romance (and isn't too much of a stickler about historical accuracy), with a bit of mystery and strong female leads. It's perfect for both newcomers (like me) and seasoned fans, offering captivating characters and a plot that keeps you intrigued until the last page.

It was a real struggle not to read this book all in one go, I could barely put it down. “A Lady's Lesson in Scandal” is a fantastic addition to the historical romance world and leaves you excited for more in The Queen's Deadly Damsels series. I will absolutely be reading the rest of this series.

Thank you to Boldwood Books and Net Galley for my eARC in exchange for my unbiased review.

“Impractical Magic” is a charming cosy autumnal read. Set in the matrilineal magical small town of Oak Haven, New England, the story follows Scarlett Melrose, the screw-up middle child who returns home after a decade to confront her past mistakes and resolve a magical crisis.

Grimoire's enjoyable prose brings the cosy setting to life, The fluffy novel blends family drama, second-chance romance, and a hint of magical mystery, creating an engaging narrative that explores themes of self-discovery, reconciliation, and standing up for yourself. The book almost reminds me of My Big Fat Greek Wedding in the best way.

The book's strengths include its quirky characters, atmospheric writing, and quick world-building. One nitpick: the use of “muggle” for non-magic users feels slightly unoriginal, and could invoke negative feelings for some readers. It's a minor flaw in an otherwise enjoyable read.

Perfect for fans of Gilmore Girls and Practical Magic, this cosy autumn tale offers an ideal blend of magic and small-town charm. It's best enjoyed on a crisp autumn day with a warm blanket and a pumpkin spice latte.

Thank you to Avon Books UK and Net Galley for the eARC of this book so that I could provide my honest review.

A Delightfully Witty Satire of High Society

5/5 stars - A must-read for fans of short satirical humour.

“Bedtime Stories for Privileged Children” by Daniel Foxx sparkles with biting wit and clever observations. This collection of short stories is a masterful satire that playfully skewers the eccentricities of the upper crust.

Foxx's razor-sharp humour is on full display as he crafts tales of pampered little ones navigating their gilded world. Each story is a perfect little vignette, offering readers a glimpse into the absurdly luxurious lives of the fictional dysfunctional families.

His talent for blending the ridiculous with the relatable results in genuinely laugh-out-loud moments. From slurring mamas obsessed with Ozempic, cheese boards, affairs, and divorces to distanced papas embroiled in embezzlement scandals, the characters are delightfully over-the-top yet oddly familiar.

Standout stories include “The Easter Egg Hunt,” which educates on the importance to settling out of court, and “Penelope's Night Before Christmas,” a hilarious twist on the classic poem.

While the humour is decidedly adult, none of the language is. It is never directly mean or nasty. Instead, Foxx manages to create a sense of gentle fondness for his privileged protagonists, making the satire all the more effective.

There are some decidedly British references that you might need to look up to fully appreciate some jokes. For example, a P45 is paperwork you get when you leave (or are fired from) a job. Having these definitely lends a British flavour, but doesn't take away from the humour if you don't know all the references.

“Bedtime Stories for Privileged Children” is the perfect gift for anyone who appreciates dry humour and social commentary.

5 out of 5 stars

“Belladonna” by Adalyn Grace is a captivating blend of gothic fantasy, mystery, and romance that will enchant you from the first page. Set in a slightly magical 19th-century world, the story follows Signa Farrow, a 17-year-old orphan with an unusual gift – she can communicate with spirits and has a unique relationship with Death himself, and she does not like it at all.

When Signa is sent to live with her last living relatives, the Hawthornes, at their eerie Thorn Grove estate, she becomes entangled in a web of family secrets, suspicious deaths, and a mysterious illness plaguing her young cousin. As Signa delves deeper into the family's dark history, she must use her supernatural abilities to uncover the truth behind her aunt's murder and save her cousin's life.

Grace's writing is beautifully atmospheric, creating a lush, gothic ambience that permeates every page. She weaves together elements of fantasy, paranormal, and mystery, keeping readers guessing until the very end. The pacing is well-executed, with plenty of twists and turns to maintain suspense throughout the novel.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its characters. Signa's growth from an angry, lonely, cursed orphan to a young woman embracing her powers is compelling. The supporting cast, including the charismatic Death, adds depth and intrigue to the story. The chemistry between Signa and Death is particularly noteworthy, creating a slow-burn romance that will leave readers swooning. Talk about an age-gap romance!

While some readers may intuit one or two plot twists, the overall mystery remains engaging, with several surprises in store. The ending sets up an intriguing cliffhanger, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next instalment in the series. Luckily, the next two books are already published and I absolutely devoured them.

“Belladonna” is perfect for fans of gothic literature, paranormal romance, and murder mysteries. Adalyn Grace has crafted a dreamy, imaginative world that will linger in your mind long after you finish this book.

With its stunning cover matching the beauty of its contents, this book is both a visual and literary treat.

I discovered Evelyn Hollow through the Uncanny podcast hosted by Danny Robins, who also wrote a great introduction for this book. I find her to be a measured and knowledgeable paranormal researcher. I am personally a hopeful sceptic, and when I saw Evelyn had written a book I knew I would enjoy it, and so will you.

‘Atlas of Paranormal Places' is a must-read for fans of Evelyn and the podcast. This book isn't just a bunch of rehashed ghost stories; it takes you on a fascinating journey through history, cultural beliefs, and the strange happenings that have intrigued people for ages.

The book is organized really well, making it easy to explore the different places and tales. Each page features stunning photos that capture the eerie vibe of these locations. From the moving coffins in the Chase Vault to the Winchester House (a personal fave), every story is interesting and well-researched.

Evelyn Hollow writes in a way that draws you in and feels warm, taking into account both sceptics and believers. She looks into the history and legends of each place, discussing what might be made up and what could have natural explanations. Whether you believe in the paranormal or are simply curious about the stories that have influenced cultures globally, this book is definitely worth your time.

I highly recommend ‘Atlas of Paranormal Places' to anyone who loves the supernatural, history, and beautifully told stories.

I really loved reading Gothic Life by Aurelio Voltaire. This book is a fun introduction to gothic decor, making it great for people who want to design their first space with a spooky vibe. Voltaire encourages people to embrace the darker side of life, which really shows in this beautiful collection of his ideas.

The book begins with an interesting look at the history and mindset of goth culture, featuring famous figures like Vincent Price, Tim Burton, and Elvira. I especially enjoyed learning a little about the history and inspiration behind gothic style, it added a nice context. The colour combinations suggested in the book go beyond just black, offering great ideas for creating a sophisticated living space with the vibe you want.

The dark DIY projects are clearly written and easy to follow, using affordable and easy-to-find items. Voltaire has a variety of projects covering hosting, holidays, and decorating, so whether you're a fan of his DIY guides on YouTube and music or just getting into the gothic scene, this book has something for everyone wanting to enhance their goth style.

Overall, Gothic Life is a charming decorating book filled with goth personality. It's perfect for anyone wanting to express their inner goth all year round or looking for spooky ideas for their next Halloween party. I highly recommend it for those interested in DIY projects with a dark twist.

One word of caution: be careful with the recipes that include charcoal. Charcoal can affect medications, including birth control, so it's important to check before cooking anything that uses it.

Rating: 5/5 Stars

General Thoughts:

‘Best Hex Ever' by Nadia El-Fassi is a delightful debut that mixes romance and magic, and throws in a cafe and forced proximity for good measure. As someone who enjoys paranormal romance this book was a fun, cosy read. The mix of sweet and spicy scenes makes this book an ideal autumn read, perfect for those chilly nights by the fire.

Summary:

Dina Whitlock runs a cafe in London that serves delicious pastries and a hint of magic. Plagued by a hex that brings increasingly to anyone she loves, Dina has guarded her heart for years. Enter Scott Mason, a world traveler returning to London to start anew as a curator at the British Museum. As they navigate a weekend full of wedding duties as Maid of Honour and Best Man, they have to face their growing feelings. Dina must confront the hex that threatens to drive them apart. The story is filled with witchy rituals, heartfelt moments, and just the right amount of spice to keep readers engaged.

Final Thoughts:

Overall, ‘Best Hex Ever' is a cosy magical romance that will leave you smiling. It's a wonderful addition to the cosy paranormal genre, and I can't wait to see what Nadia El-Fassi writes next. If you're looking for a heartwarming and spicy read ‘Best Hex Ever' should be at the top of your list.

General Thoughts:
As someone whose all-time favourite novel is The Great Gatsby, I was curious about Beautiful Villain. A modern-day reimagining with a supernatural twist could have gone very wrong, but I didn't need to worry. After reading it, I can say that this book is a nice homage to Fitzgerald's (and likely his wife Zelda's) work, infused with some spice and vampirism. Some readers didn't like any of the characters, but in my opinion that is a true reflection of the original characters - in the original none of them were sympathetic, except possibly Daisy.

Summary:
Home for the summer after another tough semester at college, Daisy struggles to move past a painful breakup with her cheating ex, Tom. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she attends a lavish party at a mysterious mansion and is reunited with her childhood sweetheart, Jay Gatsby. However, Jay is not only the wealthy, enigmatic figure of her memories—he's also a vampire.

Final Thoughts:
Beautiful Villain is an entertaining supernatural retelling of The Great Gatsby. It's about love, loss, and the supernatural that nicely blends the familiar with fantasy.

3.5/5 Stars

General Thoughts:

‘Our Vengeful Souls' blends the legends of Atlantis with a backstory to Disney's Ursula in ‘The Little Mermaid,' aiming to offer a sympathetic backstory to the sea witch. The concept is intriguing, and the story is captivating, but the ending feels a little inconsistent (motivation/morals wise) and somewhat rushed. Knowing this is a backstory for Ursula, you know the ending wasn't going to be an HEA, though. Despite this nit-pick, the novel presents an engaging twist on what could have been a flat backstory.

Story Summary:

Sereia, a mermaid with extraordinary magic powers, becomes entangled in a family feud for her father's throne with her brother Triton (hate that guy). When Triton curses Sereia to live as a human and threatens her with transformation into a monster upon returning to the sea, her journey takes her to Atlantis. There, she must adapt to life on land, navigate human relationships, and uncover secrets to break her curse. As Sereia goes deeper into her quest for revenge and identity, she faces consequences that challenge her perceptions of love, loyalty, and vengeance.

Final Thoughts:

The book starts strong with its imaginative blend of Atlantic mythology and Little Mermaid fairy tale elements. However, the sudden unfeelingness of formerly friendly people and Sereia's abrupt descent into murderous rage at the conclusion feels forced and disproportionate, detracting from the sympathy we have built up. Despite this criticism, the novel shows a fresh perspective on familiar tales and explores complex themes of identity, justice, and destiny. ‘Our Vengeful Souls' will appeal to readers intrigued by mythological retellings, and villain backstories.

This books didn't hit as hard for me as Switched, even though the premise is just as intriguing. It took much longer than I expected to get to the crux of the story, the dreaming, and I feel rather disconnected from it. The writing itself is as strong and fresh as ever, I just don't think this book is right for me. Also: justice for Max.

I listened to the Audible adaptation, a fun story. Reminds me somewhat of the Parasol Protectorate series. The vast majority of the time it is a fun listen with great characters.

A content warning: Attempted SA is a repeated theme, at least in the Audible version. One of these scenes is very sounds (foley) heavy, so if SA is a trigger, you may wish to avoid the Audible recording.

“The Witch's Lens” by Luanne G. Smith is a delightful blend of historical fiction and fantasy that deserves a solid 5/5 stars. The story is centered around Petra's unique talent for capturing souls on film during World War I, which makes for a truly engaging read from beginning to end. Although romance isn't the main focus, it adds a lovely layer of depth to the story. Smith skillfully weaves together world-building, character development, and exciting pacing, resulting in a satisfying and well-rounded conclusion.

“Can't Spell Treason Without Tea” by Rebecca Thorne is a delightful story that takes readers on a charming adventure through a world filled with love, magic, and mystery.

Thorne's writing brings readers into the lives of Reyna, a determined Queen's guard weary of serving a harsh ruler, and Kianthe, a powerful mage yearning for a simpler life with Reyna. Their forbidden love grew as they dreamt of escaping their oppressive circumstances to open a quaint book and tea shop. After their escape, they both navigate challenges from their past and present, and their relationship develops, offering a sweet f/f romance.

While the pacing is uneven at times, Thorne's storytelling skills keep readers engaged. The charming town of Tawney and its quirky residents create a cosy atmosphere that draws readers into the magical world of the story.

Can't Spell Treason Without Tea is a good blend of romance, magic, and mystery. Thorne weaves together elements of cosy fantasy with moments of tension, ensuring an enjoyable read from beginning to end.

For fans of Legends & Lattes looking for an f/f romance in a charming fantasy setting, this book is for you.

4/5 stars

As a new reader of Elle McNicoll's work, diving into “Some Like it Cold” felt like an already favourite book and I will be reading more of her work.

This novel, which I would say is half coming-of-age novel, half enemies-to-lovers romance, and offers more than a love story. McNicoll brings together themes of family dynamics, small-town life, being on the spectrum, and loving someone on the spectrum, creating a story that offers heartwarming insight.

I found Jasper's journey to be authentic (sometimes, painfully so) but also enlightening. What truly touched me as someone on the spectrum who counts as ‘highly functioning' was the way that living with autism was portrayed with sensitivity, honesty, and authenticity. If you have a child or close relative on the spectrum and you are not, I advise you to read this book for some insight on one experience with ASD.

The romance between Jasper and Arthur is nicely written, with a perfect balance of sweetness and personal history. Their journey from distant enemies to reluctant allies to something more is a classic enemies-to-lovers gambit. McNicoll excels at capturing the nuances of their relationship, making every moment feel authentic.

Jasper's relationships with friends and family are also deeply and insightfully explored. These threads and subplots make up the other half of the novel and are honest and compelling. Themes of repairing a strained friendship, the need to belong vs. the need to break away, and the personal price of keeping the peace are explored with brutal honesty without harshness.

Their hometown Lake Pristine, has that small-town atmosphere that adds an extra layer of depth to the story. It feels like a visit to a place where you would spend a charming weekend. If you fell in love with the place and moved there, you wouldn't be considered a ‘local' until your family had been there for three generations, and that feeling is kindly but honestly conveyed, an authentic background for the novel.

“Some Like it Cold” is a delightful read that will tug at your heart and leave you with a smile. Elle McNicoll's storytelling shines brightly in this novel, and I cannot recommend it enough. Whether you're a fan of romance, interested in neurodiversity, or simply looking for a heartwarming story to brighten your day, this book is a must-read.

Disclaimer: I received an ARC copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review

Modern Sourdough is a delightful addition to any baker's cookbook collection. Michelle Eshkeri's detailed instructions for growing a sourdough starter offer a helpful starting point for bakers of all levels and the book only gets better from there.

I got into sourdough during the pandemic (like so many others), but I still had so much to learn and this book is definitely going to up my game. The book is hugely visually appealing, with gorgeous photos that made me want to start baking again immediately.

It features a wide range of bread recipes to suit every taste, from classic loaves to fancy pastries. This book even includes recipes for desserts and jams/spreads from Michelle's restaurant Margot, all of which look absolutely amazing.

Whether you're new to sourdough or looking to try something new, this book is a valuable resource. Get ready to up your baking game and enjoy the delicious flavours of homemade sourdough creations!

My husband's favourite way to cook is grilling. Smokin' and Grillin' with Aaron Brown is the perfect cookbook for him, with lots of recipes I know we will be grilling up on sunny days.

Brown's expertise really shines in this book, offering a variety of traditional grilling recipes along with some unique surprises like delicious-looking sweet tea-marinated grilled chicken and beef burgers stuffed with whiskey and cheese. Each recipe looks amazing, and I love the easy-to-follow layout of each page. The inclusion of lamb dishes (something I don't usually see in grilling books) was a welcome addition and I can't wait to try more grilled lamb.

With a wide range of mouthwatering recipes and clear instructions, this cookbook is a great resource for anyone wanting to up their grilling game. Get ready to impress your guests and treat your taste buds to some amazing dishes from “Smokin' and Grillin' with Aaron Brown.

This book was a mixed bag for me. I was genuinely intrigued by the premise, but something about the writing style didn't quite fit with me as a reader. The writing is incredibly descriptive and vivid, but I felt very disconnected from it. I don't want to give any spoilers, but I will say that the beginning is both compelling and interesting. Especially in the beginning, there were a lot of characters introduced quickly, and I kept confusing them. This book has an excellent style, it just wasn't for me.

Jo Bartlett's “Finding Friends at the Cornish Country Hospital” is a nice clean read that explores friendship, love, and life's challenges in a heartwarming way. It has two narratives: Esther Hamilton is an A&E nurse navigating life after a breakup, and her mother Caroline is searching for purpose in retirement and a suddenly distant marriage.

The growing friendship between Esther and Joe Carter, her best friend's brother, adds a tender touch of rediscovered love to the story. While there is a bit of a romance, this may leave more heavy romance readers wanting more depth in the primary romantic subplot. Also, starting with the first book in this series may enhance enjoyment for new readers as recurring characters are reintroduced, but they don't overshadow in any way.

Bartlett's storytelling is simple and moving. The book handles heavy topics with sensitivity, including ageing, mental health, physical health, infidelity, death, and grief, providing readers with a touching and insightful experience. The first half of the book is especially loaded, so please check for trigger warnings - but know that there are more bright spots later on as well.

With engaging storytelling and thoughtful exploration of ageing, friendship, and romance, Finding Friends at the Cornish Country Hospital earns a solid four-star rating.

A big thank you to Boldwood and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Happy Medium is a delightful read that I devoured in just one sitting. It blends humour with a touch of the paranormal in a heartwarming and funny way. Author Sarah Adler has created lovable characters in Gretchen Acorn and Charlie Waybill that perfectly fit in the grumpy x sunshine genre.

Gretchen, a fake medium who prefers the ‘harmless' con of speaking with the dead over outright hustles, finds herself in a tricky situation when tasked with cleansing a supposedly haunted goat farm. Meeting the sceptical and brooding (and hot) Charlie puts a spanner in the works. When Gretchen bumps into the real ghost doing the real haunting, her adventure takes a surprising turn, making for a charming and unconventional supernatural rom-com.

The premise of Happy Medium combines humour, romance, and a bit of the paranormal refreshingly well. The chemistry between Gretchen and Charlie is electric. The addition of a handsome (and horny) ghost adds to the chaos and charm of the story. Adler excels at creating relatable characters and placing them in entertaining situations.

I highly recommend Happy Medium with a rating of 4.5 stars. It's a fun read that offers a mix of contemporary and unconventional elements. Whether you enjoy paranormal romances or grumpy x sunshine romances, this book is sure to satisfy you.

At First Spite is an excellent contemporary romance, earning a solid five stars from me. This book not only hooks you in with its unique premise but keeps you engaged with its fun storytelling and dynamic characters. The Spite House concept, a tiny ten-foot-wide home that becomes a symbol of Athena's independence, is not only original but completely captivating. I couldn't help but get caught up in the idea of living in such a quirky and special space, imagining the potential for turning a spiteful purchase into a place of self-discovery and new beginnings.

Olivia Dade's writing is full of detailed descriptions that bring the story to life vividly. From the quirky architecture of the Spite House to the emotional rollercoaster rides of the characters, the story is conveyed with care and detail. The settings and scenes are so vividly portrayed that it feels like you're a nosy neighbour of the Spite House, experiencing the tension and chemistry between Athena and Matthew.

The romance between Athena and Matthew is both intricate and charming. Their journey from adversaries to partners is filled with misunderstandings, personal growth, and witty banter. Dade expertly navigates their relationship, ensuring that their love story feels genuine and well-earned. The steamy scenes throughout the book add just the right amount of passion, making their connection even more exciting. These moments are fun, spicy, and meaningful, adding depth to Athena and Matthew's bond and showcasing their emotional and physical chemistry.

What sets Olivia's writing apart is its ability to blend humour with heartfelt moments, creating a story that is both entertaining and emotionally impactful. The exploration of serious themes like grief and depression is handled with care, adding layers to the characters and their journey together.

Overall, At First Spite is Olivia Dade's finest work yet, a perfect mix of fun, heart, and passion. It's a story that hits home, reminding us of the power of second chances and the unexpected paths to love. This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a romance that is as thoughtful as it is exciting.

The cover is perfect, the art style is bang on for the vibe of this story and even includes the strawberry dress.

I received an ARC via NetGalley for an honest review.